American Civil Liberties Union

Summer 2009 Internship Opportunity
Notice to Undergraduate Students
Communications-Media Relations
American Civil Liberties Union
New York, NY

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is a nationwide, nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to the principles of liberty and equality embodied in the U.S. Constitution. The ACLU has made an unambiguous and unwavering commitment to the importance of communications as a central and essential element in the success of its mission. The organization places great emphasis on the role of communications in framing the debate on its issues, building support, and increasing the impact of its work. The Communications Department seek applicants for an Undergraduate Internship which will begin in the in the Summer of 2009.

Media Relations plays a leading role in articulating the positions and establishing the public voice of the ACLU. Media Relations is responsible for developing and maintaining relationships with the news media in order to advance the mission of the ACLU.

INTERNSHIP OVERVIEW:
A commitment of 10 weeks is requested, although the specific length and terms of the internship will be negotiated when an offer is made. This internship is unpaid, with the opportunity to earn school credit, if applicable.

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITES:

The responsibilities of the Communications Department Intern will include:

• Providing assistance in tracking current events pertinent to the organization’s agenda
• Tracking media coverage of ACLU issues and initiatives
• Drafting various communications materials
• Performing other duties integral to the department’s function

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

• Applicants should have excellent research, writing and communications skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Applicants must have good computer skills and familiarity with the Internet.
• An interest in civil liberties, the legislative process, communications/media relations and current events is preferred.

HOW TO APPLY:
Your application materials should be submitted no later than May 30, 2009.

Applicants should send a cover letter, resume, and a writing sample. If you have any experience in communications, a related writing sample should be included. The cover letter should include your availability and your specific interests in civil liberties. Please submit all materials to:

American Civil Liberties Union
Human Resources
125 Broad Street, 18^th Floor
New York, NY 10004

The ACLU is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and encourages applications from women, people of color, persons with disabilities, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals.

The ACLU comprises two separate corporate entities, the American Civil Liberties Union and the ACLU Foundation. Both the American Civil Liberties Union and the ACLU Foundation are national
organizations with the same overall mission, and share office space and employees. The ACLU has two separate corporate entities in order to do a broad range of work to protect civil liberties. This job posting refers collectively to the two organizations under the name “ACLU.”